46 — Rumors all around.

A week can go by really fast when you wish time would just stop.

When I blinked, the day of the presentation arrived.

And when I blinked again, the presentation was a success.

The clients really liked the sample showed and approved to proceed. We closed the deal — which means no more reasons for my father to stay abroad.

The message he sent me as soon as everything worked out made it even clearer, [Sweetheart, I'll be home soon].

And I just didn't know how to react…. I knew this moment would come, but now that it's happening, a bitter taste has risen to my mouth.

I stared at the message for a few moments. But with an impulse, I walk to Julian's room and knock on his door, holding my breath and only letting it out when he opens the door.

He leaves it open for me, with the phone pressed against his ear….

“Yes, Mike… Got it.”

I feel my stomach twist, watching as Julian walks back to his desk, giving me a glimpse of his broad back, whose muscles seem more retracted than usual.

“Right.”